Since 1986, water rates in the city have risen more than 200 percent.
First they raised water rates, but that didn't have much effect.
While water rates may continue to rise, he said, an increase would have happened with or without the sale of the system.
Already, water rates have gone up by 207 percent since 1986.
The system has caused residential water rates to rise from an average $150 per year to $1,500.
In July, the city raised water rates by 9.4 percent, far more than had been projected.
For example, if water rates are a sticking point, the state will lower them.
Double water rates are being charged to outside customers, and that has nothing to do with costs.
This raises their treatment costs, which eventually will result in higher water rates, he said.
These costs will be passed on in higher water rates and increased rents.